Nigeria - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Hanz Energy Resources was founded with a clear purpose: to create a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels that addresses the dual challenges of environmental degradation and public health concerns.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Hanz Energy Resources is an innovative social green company dedicated to providing sustainable energy solutions in Gombe state with market in North East Nigeria. Our mission is to address environmental and health challenges while creating value for our customers. We specialize in producing Hanz Briquettes, an eco-friendly biomass fuel, and the Hanz Energy Stove, a high-efficiency cooking appliance. Our products are designed for households, restaurants, women between the age of 15-65, small businesses, and eco-tourism facilities seeking reliable and clean energy alternatives. We stand out in the market through our commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. By transforming agricultural waste into valuable energy products, we contribute to a circular economy and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The reliance on traditional biomass and fossil fuels for cooking and heating poses significant health risks, environmental concerns, and economic inefficiencies. The use of firewood and fossil contributes to deforestation, air pollution, and a high incidence of respiratory diseases. In March 2022, we lost a dear Aunt not to Covid 19, not to diabetes or other terminal disease but to lung cancer because the doctor said she died as a result of deposit of soot in her lungs because she was cooking with fire wood. Additionally, the agricultural sector generates a vast amount of waste, such as sugarcane bagasse, corn stalks, and coconut shells which have high combustive value but often goes unutilized and contributes to environmental pollution.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

The value proposition, impactful features and benefits of using Hanz Briquettes and Cook Stoves are:  Sustainability and Eco-friendly: Utilizing agricultural waste such as corn stalks, sugar cane bargas and coconut shells reduces environmental pollution and deforestation especially in North East Nigeria that is ravaged by these wastes. Health benefits: As a green business, Hanz Energy Briquette minimizes smoke emissions, protecting users from respiratory issues as the case of our dear Aunt. Efficiency and cost effectiveness: Hanz Charcoal briquettes have higher combustion value and longer burn time than traditional charcoal. Additionally, the briquette and the energy stove is affordable alternative to conventional fuels, reducing household expenses, You can cook three sqaure meal with less that 500 naira that equivalent to $0.33.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our target market women within the age of 15-65 who are in households, restaurants, and food vendors in Northern Nigeria, where there is a high demand for efficient and clean energy sources.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-12-01

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

With three board of adviser in the governance structure and three executive directors Production/Inventory Management: Hannatu Linga, Female CEO Oversees the production process, manage inventory levels, and ensure quality control. B, Eng Water and Waste Management Resources and diploma in Business Administration and Management and 3 years expertise in production planning and inventory management systems. Admin/Facility Management: Hajara Salisu, Female, COO Handle day-to-day operations, facility maintenance, and administrative tasks. A degree in business management with strong organizational skills. Staff: Facility Manager with a background in operations and facility oversight. Marketing/Sales/Finance: Maisilifas Ahmed Function: Develop and implement marketing strategies, manage sales teams, and drive revenue growth. Qualifications: Degree in business finance with experience in sales management, digital marketing and proven track record in increasing market share and sales.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Hanz Energy Resources actively contributes to the No Poverty goal by empowering women and youths through economic opportunities. By sourcing agricultural waste for briquette production, Hanz creates a demand for materials that are often readily available but undervalued. This initiative turns waste into wealth, providing a steady income stream for these groups.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Hanz Energy Stove provides an efficient and clean cooking solution, which can help families prepare meals more quickly and safely. This efficiency means less time spent on cooking and more time available for income-generating activities or agriculture. You can cook three sqaure meal with less that 500 naira that equivalent to $0.33.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Traditional cooking methods often involve burning wood or charcoal, which can release harmful pollutants indoors. Hanz Briquettes burn cleaner, significantly reducing indoor air pollution and associated respiratory problems as in the case of my Aunt. The Hanz Energy Stove is designed for high-efficiency combustion which is powered by power bank, minimizing smoke and toxic emissions. This leads to a healthier environment both indoors and outdoors. By providing income opportunities through the supply chain for agricultural waste, Hanz helps improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities, allowing for better access to healthcare and nutrition. Through our community engagement and education, Hanz raises awareness about the importance of clean energy and its health benefits, promoting a culture of well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Children can have ample time to study because of the reduced time in fetching firewood. By engaging these groups in the supply chain, Hanz enables them to earn an income, which can be used to support educational opportunities for themselves and their families. The cost savings from using Hanz’s affordable energy solutions can allow families to allocate more funds towards education.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Women and youth are essential parts of the value chain

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

2

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Hanz briquettes produce minimal smoke and ash. Their low emissions contribute to better air quality, especially important in indoor settings. Cleaner burning also reduces maintenance efforts associated with stove cleaning. These briquettes break up easily, making them convenient for lighting stoves. Users appreciate the hassle-free ignition process, especially during cold weather. Hanz briquettes serve a dual purpose. They can be used both as a primary fuel source and for kindling. This versatility simplifies logistics for users, as they don’t need separate products for starting fires. By using Hanz briquettes, customers contribute to environmental conservation. These briquettes are typically made from renewable biomass materials, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Hanz Energy Stove Hanz Energy stove complements the briquettes, enhancing the overall user experience. Here’s how it benefits customer

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

4

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

By producing eco-friendly briquettes and stoves, Hanz promotes cleaner production techniques and reduces environmental impact, exemplifying sustainable industrial practices. Hanz is at the forefront of developing innovative energy products that are efficient and environmentally friendly, contributing to the advancement of the energy sector. Building Infrastructure: Through the establishment of production facilities for briquettes and stoves, Hanz helps build local industrial infrastructure that supports sustainable practices. Engaging in continuous research and development, Hanz encourages a culture of innovation within the industry, driving progress in sustainable energy technologies. Hanz Energy Resources’ commitment to these areas not only advances its own business but also contributes to broader economic growth and environmental sustainability.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

4

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Reducing Emissions: Hanz Briquettes are made from agricultural waste, which burns cleaner than traditional fuels like wood or coal, significantly reducing carbon emissions. Promoting Renewable Energy: By providing a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, Hanz supports the transition to a low-carbon economy. Resource Efficiency: The production process of Hanz Briquettes ensures that agricultural waste is utilized efficiently, preventing methane emissions from waste decomposition. Environmental Stewardship: Through community engagement and education, Hanz advocates for climate action and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable energy solutions. Hanz Energy Resources’ efforts in these areas demonstrate a strong commitment to combating climate change and contributing to global climate action initiatives

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

3

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

2

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

4

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

4

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

5

06.08 Justification for my startup

Hanz briquettes are carefully engineered to burn hot and long. Their compact shape ensures consistent combustion, maximizing heat output. This efficiency translates to reduced fuel consumption and cost savings for users. Clean Burning: Hanz briquettes produce minimal smoke and ash. Their low emissions contribute to better air quality, especially important in indoor settings. Cleaner burning also reduces maintenance efforts associated with stove cleaning. Ease of Use: These briquettes break up easily, making them convenient for lighting stoves. Users appreciate the hassle-free ignition process, especially during cold weather. Hanz briquettes serve a dual purpose. They can be used both as a primary fuel source and for kindling. This versatility simplifies logistics for users, as they don’t need separate products for starting fires.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

We compete primarily with traditional wood charcoal sellers and compete indirectly with gas vendors Our strength lies in the growing national and international focus on green energy provides a market eager for sustainable fuel alternatives. Opportunities (PESTLE): Political: Government initiatives to promote renewable energy provide a favorable environment for growth. Economic: Increasing fuel prices makes charcoal briquettes a cost-effective alternative. Social: Growing public awareness of health and environmental issues increases demand for clean energy solutions. Technological: Advances in renewable energy technologies can be leveraged to improve product offerings. Legal/Regulatory: Supportive regulations for green businesses offer opportunities for expansion.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

I have trained over 2000 women on how to turn agricultural waste into high combustive fuels in Bakori IDP camp in Maiduguri, in Maimari Camp in Yola